-- Sep 27, 1899; Wednesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office. Brother Heber J. Grant called, and was questioned in relation to the matter complained of by Brother Angus M. Cannon yesterday. He explained that Brother Cannon originally subscribed $500.00 for sugar stock and paid it, but after being visited by Brother Grant and Brother Moses Thatcher, in the interest of the concern, he had subscribed $4,500.00 more and given his note for that amount. Others had taken a similar course, owing to the money depression then prevailing. Brother Grant had negotiated a loan in California

to enable the Sugar Company to carry such stock holders. Then came the time when the company had to have the money for the stock, or else its surrender, and some surrendered it while others sold out for seventy five and eighty cents on the dollar. Brother Cannon was one of the former, and Brother Grant one of the latter. He had lost money by the transaction, but did not consider that he was entitled to the consideration that Brother Cannon now claims since the stock has become valuable. The Sugar Company had had this matter under consideration, and its board of directors had decided that Brother Cannon had no consistent ground to ask that he now be given 5,000 shares of sugar stock, representing $5,000.00, since the stock was going at a high premium.

Brother Angus M. Cannon called soon after Brother Grant had made the foregoing explanation, and he informed President Snow that he had decided to take his counsel and let the matter drop, though it was quite a struggle to do so, as it involved the sum of $7,000.00, and he needed the money very much. He remarked that he felt peaceful and resigned; President Snow told him that he should have strength according to his day; and he left the office, after thanking the President, evidently feeling comforted. ...

President George Q. Cannon has decided, after counseling with Presidents Snow and Smith, to send his son, Dr. William T. Cannon, to Europe, to attend his Brother, Elder Preston J. Cannon, who is sick in Germany. (1)

-- Sep 28, 1899; Thursday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were in the office, and proceeded thence to the Temple, to meet with the Apostles in regular council.

A letter was read from J. E. Cardon and Melvin J. Ballard, of Logan [Utah], asking the sanction of the Authorities for the manufacture of a knitted garment. The Council had no objection.

A letter was read from John Lloyd, asking what he should do, in order to maintain his standing in the Church. As previously stated in this journal, he confessed, after denying, to the Presidency the truth of a charge brought against him by the Authorities of the European Mission--a charge of criminal intimacy with a woman in Wales. On motion of President Smith the case was turned over to the Presidency of the Stake.

The letter from President [David K.] Udall, of St. John's [Arizona/New Mexico] Stake, which was partly acted upon at the last session of the Council now came up for consideration as to the financial portion of its contents. It appears that Brother Udall has purchased a valuable ranch property, including among its improvements a flour mill. He is now being sued for $2,000.00, and unless this claim can be satisfied the whole property will be lost and a number of innocent parties injured thereby. His debt to them amounts to fifteen or sixteen thousand dollars. He suggests that

if an order could be issued on the tithing office, as an assurance, some of the brethren would feel justified in assuming the $2,000.00 indebtedness, if this property should go out of the hands of Brother Udall, it would pass into the hands of non-Mormons and might be the means of breaking up St. Johns as a Stake.

The matter was freely discussed by the Council, the sentiment being in favor of extending help to President Udall, provided it would benefit the people of St. Johns and prevent the breaking up of the Stake. Brother Grant thought that if the Church came to the rescue, it could not, in the event of failure, lose more than $3,000.00 in the transaction. Brother Lund suggested that the credit of the Church be extended to Brother Udall, to enable him to save himself. President Snow suggested, as Brother John Henry Smith had previously done, that some one be sent to St. Johns to confer with the brethren there, and that he be given the authority to help them if the situation should warrant it. He proposed that Brother Lund be sent. Brother Grant and others seconded the President's proposition, the first named suggested that a letter be sent to Brother Udall, asking him to have the suit postponed, and that he come to the general conference in October, to be conferred with upon the subject. President Cannon proposed, in order to help Brother Udall in the postponement of the suit, that a letter of assurance be written, to the effect that the Church would assist him to meet the $2,000 obligation. No formal action was taken, President Snow now intimating that he was averse to doing anything at all in this business until he could learn more about it. ...

Elders Angus M. Cannon and Charles W. Penrose, of the Presidency, and Elder D. L. Davis, of the High Council, of Salt Lake Stake, called and represented to the First Presidency the condition of the Bingham branch. They felt that a Ward organization should be given the saints residing at that place. This proposition received the sanction of President Snow, with the understanding that whomsoever was chosen to be the Bishop should come to the City to be ordained. (1)

-- Sep 26, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon were at the office.

President Cannon attended an adjourned meeting of the five canal companies of Salt Lake County.

Elder Angus M. Cannon, President of Salt Lake Stake, called and conversed with the First Presidency, reciting a grievance that he had against the Utah Sugar Company, in that he had been called upon to pay for certain stock held by him in that company, or else surrender it. He had elected to surrender it, and now a stock dividend was about to be declared, the company having become prosperous. He had taken stock in the concern with the understanding that the First Presidency were the general supporters of the industry, and he wanted to know now if they wished him to be shut out from the benefits of the stock after it had been in his name so long.

President [Joseph F.] Smith, who had come in, and had heard Brother Cannon's statement, explained, as a member of the Sugar Company, that Brother Cannon had been given the opportunity to purchase this stock, and the same opportunity had been extended to other stock holders who had not paid up, and that all had been treated alike. Brother Cannon and others had given their notes for the stock they subscribed, and the company had carried their notes as cash. But a time came when the company had to determine that these notes should either be paid, or the stock surrendered which they represented. When this conclusion was reached, the company was not about to declare a dividend, though as a matter of fact a dividend was declared not very long afterwards, and dividends have been in order since that time.

President Snow stated that the only part the First Presidency took in the establishment of the sugar industry was to encourage the people in the beginning to subscribe for the stock. Those who did subscribe and pay for their stock were now reaping great benefits, while those who subscribed but did not pay, like those who declined to subscribe at all, were not "in it." The President regarded this as purely a business matter between the Board of Directors and the stock holders of the Sugar Company. (1)

-- Sep 26, 1899
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon were at the office.

President Cannon attended an adjourned meeting of the five canal companies of Salt Lake County.

Elder Angus M. Cannon, President of Salt Lake Stake, called and conversed with the First Presidency, reciting a grievance that he had against the Utah Sugar Company, in that he had been called upon to pay for certain stock held by him in that company, or else surrender it. He had elected to surrender it, and now a stock dividend was about to be declared, the company having become prosperous. He had taken stock in the concern with the understanding that the First Presidency were the general supporters of the industry, and he wanted to know now if they wished him to be shut out from the benefits of the stock after it had been in his name so long.

President [Joseph F.] Smith, who had come in, and had heard Brother Cannon's statement, explained, as a member of the Sugar Company, that Brother Cannon had been given the opportunity to purchase this stock, and the same opportunity had been extended to other stock holders who had not paid up, and that all had been treated alike. Brother Cannon and others had given their notes for the stock they subscribed, and the company had carried their notes as cash. But a time came when the company had to determine that these notes should either be paid, or the stock surrendered which they represented. When this conclusion was reached, the company was not about to declare a dividend, though as a matter of fact a dividend was declared not very long afterwards, and dividends have been in order since that time.

President Snow stated that the only part the First Presidency took in the establishment of the sugar industry was to encourage the people in the beginning to subscribe for the stock. Those who did subscribe and pay for their stock were now reaping great benefits, while those who subscribed but did not pay, like those who declined to subscribe at all, were not "in it." The President regarded this as purely a business matter between the Board of Directors and the stock holders of the Sugar Company.

The devil seems determined to fight us every where. Four men were arrested for unlawful co- habitation the other day in Richfield [Utah]. I think they are trying to work up a sentiment against [B. H.] Roberts, and hence want to show to the world that there are many cases yet to be dealt with. It is good to know that the Lord is at the Helm and the good ship Zion will not be hindered in its course. (2)

-- Sep 25, 1899; Monday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon were at the office.

The sum of $20.00 was appropriated in favor of Bishop Lau and family of Soda Springs [Idaho], as a mark of appreciation by President Snow of their entertainment of him and his party during their recent visit to the north. (1)

-- Tuesday, Sep 26, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Logan. I called upon Isaac Smith, with whom I had some conversation in relation to the B. Y. Monument Fund, and he informed me that a meeting of the brethren had been called for 2 p.m. and that nothing much could be done until that hour. In the meantime Elder Jos. W. McMurrin had come up from Salt Lake by my request to join me. We called at the temple to pay our respects to Apostle M. W. Merrill. He was pleased to see us, he said, and would be present at the meeting.

2 p.m. Meeting of the brethren at the high council chamber in the tithing office. Present: Apostle M. W. Merrill, myself, Presidents Jos. W. McMurrin and C. D. Fjeldsted, Elders I. Smith and S. Molen of the stake presidency, 8 high councillors, 16 bishops or counselors out of the 26 wards composing the stake. Meeting called to order by S. Molen.

Apostle Merrill invited me to state the object of the meeting. I then submitted a letter from the First Presidency, of which the following is a copy.

Salt Lake City,

Sep. 22, [18]99

To the Stake Presidency, High Council, and Bishopric of Cache Stake of Zion

Dear brethren:

We are desirous that the means due from the Cache Stake to the Brigham Young Memorial Fund be paid in at the earliest possible moment. The matter is of such urgency that we have appointed Elder Rudger Clawson, who will be accompanied by Elder Jos. W. McMurrin, to visit your stake and confer with Elders Molen and Smith of the stake presidency, the high council, and the bishopric of the various wards as to what steps should be taken for the collection of the fund.

Trusting that they will be met by a prompt and generous response, we remain,

Your brethren,

Lorenzo Snow,

Signed Geo. Q. Cannon,

Jos. F. Smith.

I made brief remarks upon the matter set forth in said letter. Explained that the authorities of the stake had been called together that we might consult with them and take such action as might seem best and wisest. At all events, I said, if anything were accomplished it would be by the united effort of the presiding authorities of the stake. Said that the amount apportioned to the Cache Stake was $3500.00 of which $408.28 had been paid, leaving $3091.72 still due.

Elder Jos. W. McMurrin spoke briefly on the life and character of Brigham Young and showed clearly the importance of meeting this requirement at once. Apostle Merrill said that steps should be taken at once to get this means in and he would favor an apportionment of the same to the various wards. So far as he knew this never had been done.

It was moved and carried that an apportionment of $3500 be made on the basis of the number of families in each ward, and that Apostle M. W. Merrill, associated with the stake presidency, be appointed a committee to make the apportionment. The committee notified the brethren that the apportionment would be made out immediately after the close of the meeting and they could get it at 4:30 p.m. (2)

-- September 23, 1899
…The next morning (Sept. 23, 1899) Brother Carleton came out of his room with a coin in his hand and told me that he had plowed it up in his field on the banks of the St. Mary's River. He also told me that he had felt impressed during the night to give the coin to me although he had refused the Elder who had baptized him. "I looked at the coin as he handed it to me and I thought that I knew what it was, as I had seen a picture of Nephite coins on the fly leaf of the old edition of the Book of Mormon. The coin bore a striking resemblance to those coins."…I told him I had made up my mind to take it to the First Presidency of the Church…On the way home between Pueblo, Colorado and Salt Lake City, the first morning out, there was on the train an historian and writer from England by the name of Willis…He then said to me, "…I will place seven thousand dollars ($7000) in the bank to your credit…I thanked him for his interest but repeated that the coin was not for sale…In the office of the First Presidency there were President Lorenzo Snow, President Joseph F. Smith, President Francis M. Lyman and _________. After reporting my mission, I took the coin out and showed it to them. President Lyman went and got the old edition (probably the first edition) of the Book of Mormon in which pictures of nephite coins were printed, and found the same coin immediately.

Description of the Nephite Coin

The Egyptian characters were identically the same as those on one of the pictures in the Book of Mormon. The coin had not tarnished and the characters looked as if they had been stamped. The coin was about the size of a five-dollar gold piece, eight cornered and about as thick again as common tin, it was stamped on both sides, the characters running around the outside. The characters were small, somewhat like script or cursive writing, more like the hieratic than the hieroglyphic form. As I have said before, they were identical with the characters pictured on the Nephite coin in the old edition of the Book of Mormon.

I was asked what I intended doing with the coin and I turned to President Snow and told him that I was making him a present of the coin; that President Rich had told me that that was the proper thing to do and that I was following his instructions.

President Snow put his arm around my shoulder and said, "brother Robinson, you have been faithful and have kept the pledge."

He then went and got the money purse or leather bag that President Brigham Young had brought to the Rocky Mountains with him, also the Seer Stone and said, "This is the Seer Stone that the Prophet Joseph Smith used. There are very few worthy to view this, but you are." HE handed the Seer Stone to me and I couldn't express the joy that came to me as I took that stone in my hands. Words are not equal to the task of expressing such a sublime joy." He then told me to hand the seers stone to my wife and I handed it to her. He then blessed us with the greatest blessing I have ever heard fall from the mouth of man."

Description of the Seer Stone

"The Seer Stone was the shape of an egg though not quite so large, of a gray cast something like granite but with white stripes running around it. It was transparent but had no holes, neither in the end or in the sides. I looked into the stone, but could see nothing, as I had not the gift and power of God that must accompany such a manifestation." (1)

-- Sep 23, 1899; Saturday
The First Presidency were at the office. At 11 A.M. they met with the presidents of the five canal companies owning the waters of the Jordan river in this county, and it was decided to take such steps as would prevent the man Lambson from acquiring rights in the waters of that stream and of Utah lake.

Bishop [William B.] Preston called in the afternoon and met Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [George Q.] Cannon. His business was in relation to a note given to him, in trust for the Church, by Thomas Taylor, which note was past due and would outlaw in about sixty days. It was secured by a mortgage on the iron properties at Cedar City [Utah], and the question was whether Bishop Preston should foreclose the mortgage, or dispose of the note for $6,000, which sum had been offered for it. It was decided to foreclose the mortgage.

President Snow and family moved into the Beehive house today. (2)

Endnotes:
1 - Richard M. Robinson, "The History of a Nephite Coin," 4-5, signed by Robinson and his wife Maria, 30 Dec. 1934, LDS Archives, MS 5147
2 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

-- Sep 20, 1899; Wednesday
President George Q. Cannon was at the office, President Lorenzo Snow went to Brigham City [Utah] this morning to attend the funeral of Bishop Alvin Nichols. President Joseph F. Smith still in Oregon. An order was issued for $128.55, to cover expenses of sending men to Canada, to work on the Alberta canal. An order for $5.00 was issued on Lees Ferry account. (1)

-- Sep 22, 1899; Friday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office, and the former two met with Elders Brigham Young [Jr.] and John Henry Smith, Bishop Joseph S. Rawlins and Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards, the subject of conversation being the canal business mentioned yesterday. The idea was to get Bishop Rawlins to take the initiative in arranging a meeting of representatives of the five canal companies, with a view to their uniting in action against Lambson, and preventing him from obtaining rights for power use on the Jordan river. A meeting with the directors of the companies is to be held at this office tomorrow, and Bishop Rawlins is to be present.

The allowance to Elder Samuel W. Richards, of $30.00 a month, for services as an ordinance worker in the Temple was today increased, at his request, by President Snow to $50.00 a month, $20.00 in cash and the balance in scrip. (1)

-- September 23, 1899
Richard M. Robinson, "The History of a Nephite Coin," 4-5, signed by Robinson and his wife Maria, 30 Dec. 1934, LDS Archives, MS 5147 (2)

Endnotes:
1 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes
2 - John Taylor Papers

-- Sep 15, 1899; Friday
The First Presidency were at the office. They consulted with Bishop [William B.] Preston, who had called, in relation to certain changes to be made in the interior of the Beehive House, and the work to be done upon it, before President [Lorenzo] Snow should move into it.

President Snow received a call from his daughter, Birdie Snow Harding, and her husband, prior to their leaving for Chicago [Illinois] to study medicine. He gave them his blessing. (1)

-- Sunday, Sep 17, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Farmington

Father Farr and I went to Farmington. We put up at Bro. Ezra T. Clark's.

The conference of the stake convened at 10 a.m. in a Bowery. President Lorenzo Snow shook hands with 2,121 Sunday School children. (2)

-- Monday, Sep 18, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Farmington

I went to Farmington at 8 a.m. Conference in the Bowery at 10 a.m. Prayer by Arthur Winter. President Lorenzo Snow set the pace by talking on Tithing and requested the other speakers to do the same. (2)

-- Sep 19, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon were at the office, where they received a call from Hon[orable]. E. Clay Evans, U.S. Commissioner of Pensions, who is being shown the usual courtesies by Brother John Henry Smith and his son George.

Elder Jonathan G[olden]. Kimball, of the First Council of the Seventies, called this morning and had a talk with President Snow. During the course of conversation, he remarked that his time at home was not wholly occupied, and if there were any missionary

work contemplated for him, he would like to go at it pretty soon, as he was now in good health and vigor, with a small family. President Snow was pleased to hear Brother Kimball so express himself, and promised to hear him in mind.

The matter of printing, for Sunday School purposes, the Lord's prayer as proposed at the Council of the First Presidency and the Apostles, held on the third day of last August, was brought up and considered by Presidents Snow and Cannon with Brothers Anthon H. Lund, Rudger Clawson and Heber J. Grant. The question considered was, which version of the prayer should be used, the one given by the Prophet Joseph Smith, or the one contained in St. Matthew's Gospel, the Council having postponed consideration of the matter, owing to the absence of President Cannon, whose opinion, as General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union, President Snow wished to have, before the question was decided. President Cannon now stated that while he favored the Prophet Joseph's version, from the sound point of doctrine, he thought it better to adhere to the scriptural version in the Sunday schools, for the reason that this version appears in the Book of Mormon, and if the new version were adopted, questions might arise that would be confusing to the minds of the children. If the Scriptural version were used, proper explanation could be made, and the wisdom of the Prophet's rendering of the prayer would be appreciated upon comparison. President Snow acquiesced. (1)

-- Sep 12, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office. At 11 A.M. there was a Salt Company meeting which lasted two hours; and at 2:30 P.M. a meeting of the Memorial Association having in charge the business of the Pioneer Monument. There were present at the latter meeting, in addition to the First Presidency (who are regarded as an advisory committee of the Association) Governor Heber M. Wells, Bishop Nelson A. Empey, Brother John Henry Smith, and Mr. C[yrus]. E. Dallin, the sculptor, who designed and

executed the monument and the statue of President Brigham Young.

It appears that Mr. Dallin had seen President Snow at the office yesterday morning, and conversed with him on this subject, and that the meeting now held had been appointed for 10 A.M. today, but had been postponed on account of the Salt Company meeting.

Mr. Dallin related briefly, mainly for the information of President Snow, the history of the transaction relating to the erection of the monument and the execution of the statue. The contract for the work was read, and it was shown that Mr. Dallin had received half of the contract price, or $12,500, which has paid for the labor of the clay and plaster work. He said he had protested against the unveiling of the statue for business reasons, and in the interest of the monument itself, foreseeing that if it were unveiled in its unfinished state, the people would lose interest in it. He had paid for the brass work as it now stands; the committee has therefore received more than they had paid for, and he asked that the contract be lived up to. He had come from his home in Boston to collect the balance due him on this account.

Governor Wells, who is secretary of the memorial Association, made a statement, the principal point of which was that about $1,200 had been advanced to Mr. Dallin as a loan.

After some further conversation Brother John Henry Smith moved that Mr. Dallin be authorized to go ahead and finish the monument, according to a proposition made by himself, whereby he was to receive $5,000 in cash and the balance in a note for three years, drawing interest at 8 per cent. The motion was seconded by Bishop Empey.

The question now arose as to who was the president of this meeting, and after some comment it was found necessary to request President Snow to preside. He accepted the situation, and put the motion, which was carried unanimously.

The question as to who should sign the obligation to be given to Mr. Dallin now came up, and it was agreed that the Association should meet and carry out the spirit and intent of this action, with the understanding that the first Presidency would be behind them.

Mr. Dallin thanked President Snow and those present for the interest they had taken in this matter and the spirit in which they had met him. (1)

-- Sep 14, 1899; Thursday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office. President Snow authorized Treasurer James Jack to place to the credit of the Latter-day Saints College the sum of $8,000, appropriated last July, to be drawn against during the coming school year.

visit to Sanpete [Utah] Stake, that among the non-tithe payers there, were some fifteen persons whose tithing, if paid, would amount as much as is now paid by the entire Stake.

Brother Lund explained that the sheep men were the richest people in Sanpete Stake, and that as a rule they did not pay their tithing.

Commenting upon this explanation, President Snow remarked that it would no doubt come to this: that such men with their wives and unmarried children would be denied admission to the House of the Lord.

The Brigham Young or Pioneer Monument was the subject of considerable conversation, and it resulted in the Apostles undertaking to collect from the several Stakes the balances due.

President Snow decided today to move into the Beehive House, which is now the property of the Church, and thenceforth use it as an official residence. For some time past he has lived in a rented house on Canyon Road, and has been thinking for several months of vacating it, owing to a lack of proper accommodations. It had become a question in his mind as to whether he would purchase a new house, build while property and materials were cheap, or rent elsewhere. He had of late looked at quite a number of houses, and had been tempted to make a purchase, and this had sprung the question in the minds of some of the brethren, about his moving into the Beehive House or the Gardo House, the former being vacant and the latter rented. It had repeatedly been suggested to him that he ought to occupy the Beehive House, and he had given the matter some consideration, but his mind was not clear thereon, chiefly for the reason that it would be expensive to keep up such a house. the matter was brought to a focus this week, when Presidents Cannon and Smith and Bishops [William B.] Preston and [John R.] Winder expressed themselves regarding it, all favoring the occupancy of the Beehive House by the President of the Church. (1)

-- Sep 8, 1899; Friday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office; President George Q. Cannon being in Provo [Utah]. Brother Heber J. Grant had a talk with President Snow this morning, in the presence of James Jack, relative to a reduction of interest on certain notes held by the Church. The President granted the request and instructed the treasurer, Brother Jack, accordingly. (1)

The speakers were Pres. Lorenzo Snow and Bp. Wm. B. Preston. Topics treated: Dealings of the Lord with the children of Israel. Marriage among the children of Israel. Consecration. Tithing. Among other things Pres. Snow said, "The land must be sanctified by the payment of tithing." The Latter-day Saints owe millions of dollars in tithing, which they never can pay. Promised the people in the name of the Lord, if they would pay their tithing from now on, that the Lord would forgive them for their past remissness, and their indebtedness for tithing would be blotted out. Submitted the following figures to show that there had been an improvement in the payment of cash tithes during the past few months: during the months of June, July, August, and Sept. 1899 [1898] $66,000.00 was paid, and in the same months of 1899 to Sep. 10, $137,000.00 was paid. (3)

-- Sep 11, 1899; Monday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office. At 10 A.M. there was a meeting of the General Church Board of Education.

Brother William W. Riter called upon the Presidency, the Oregon Short Line Railroad Company having solicited his services in behalf of their proposed Union Depot grounds in this city. He intimated that in order to have influence with the next city council, and get certain franchises, it would be necessary for the company to secure the good will of the local newspapers. Brother Snow referred him to the editor of the Deseret News. Brother Riter stated that the railroad people requested that the News do not commit itself at present, either for or against the giving of the franchises. (1)

-- Sep 5, 1899
The First Presidency were at the office. Brother Franklin S. Richards called and presented the claim of a wife of Brother William H. Folsom against the estate of Sister Farr, deceased, who left her homestead property to the Church. Sister Folsom was an adopted daughter of Sister Farr, who is said to have stated to her executors, John Henry Smith and John Groesbeck, that she felt she had done enough for her, and she wished the Church to have the benefit of the property in question. Brother Folsom, who is in straitened circumstances, now joins his wife in asking the Church to turn over the property to her. It was decided that the Church relinquish its claim to this property, without expense to the Church, and Brother Richards was instructed to so inform the executors of the estate.

Brother Richard W. Young called and met Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith. He laid before them a matter upon which he desired their advice. Before leaving Manila, General [Elwell S.] Otis had appointed him a member of the Supreme Court there, and he had come home on furlough, with the privilege of remaining in Utah, or returning to the Philippines to continue in his present position, which brought him a salary of $5,000.00 a year. He remarked to the Presidency that if left to his own discretion he should consider it a sacrifice to return to Manila, for the reason that his family needed his presence at home, and he could not think of taking his family with him, on account of the expense it would incur. He said that he now came for the purpose of submitting the question, and would carry out whatever advice might be given him. After some deliberation the Presidency seemed to feel that it would be a proper thing for Brother Young to continue in the service of the Government. They would not, however, advise him against his will. President Snow counselled him to make it a matter of prayer, and whatever he decided to do afterwards would be agreeable and satisfactory to the brethren. With this understanding, the interview ended.

Attended to business in my office and having called at Presidents office I was told by Pres[ident]. Jos[eph]. F. Smith of a scandal about M. B. Shipp, that had come to his ears that he thought I ought to investigate before he was permitted to obtain his second anointings. It was that he had taken liberty of pinching the knee and persisting in making himself free with her and even asked her to make an appointment to meet him. (1)

-- Sep 7, 1899; Thursday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office, and proceeded thence to meet with the Apostles in the Temple.

A letter from Elder Matthias F. Cowley, dated at Chicago [Illinois] on the 30th ult., and giving an account of his labors in visiting the conferences in the Northern States, was read to the council. The writer remarked that it was very noticeable that the converts made in that mission were unusually intelligent and substantial, more so, perhaps, than those made in any other part, and he suggested, therefore, that a more experienced class of Elders be sent to labor in the Northern States mission.

After the reading of this letter, Brother Brigham Young reported an incident that recently occurred while he was in Durango [Colorado]. There our young missionaries preached out of doors, and their influence was good among the non-Mormons, who regarded them as "all right," the idea conveyed being that they were more acceptable than our older missionaries. These young Elders had learned that to preach Joseph Smith as the Prophet of this dispensation was not acceptable to the people, and they therefore refrained from so doing. Brother Young thought our young men should be cautioned on these matters, as he feared a line was being drawn between the older and the younger generations.

Brother Lund remarked, the subject being still under discussion, that during his presidency over the European Mission, the Elders in Great Britain were instructed to begin with the preaching of the first principles of the Gospel, and wind up with

bearing testimony to the divine mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith. To begin their remarks with such a testimony meant, as a rule, the loss of their congregations. ...

[Heber J. Grant] brought up the subject of the vicious assaults made upon him recently by the Salt Lake Tribune, and wanted to know if there would be any objection to his denying in a public way these falsehoods and misrepresentations.

President Smith suggested to Brother Grant that instead of writing a letter of denial, that he permit himself to be interviewed, and make his denial in that way. ...

Salt Company meetings were held at the office this afternoon, the main purpose being to consider the buying up of the shore of the lake, with a view to controlling the salt trade. In order to do this the capital stock of the company would have to be increased, which would affect the Church to the amount of about $100,000. The matter was talked over by the First Presidency with Brother N[ephi]. W. Clayton, President Snow did not like to lose control of the company, but at the same time could not see how the Church could do anything in the matter. It was finally agreed to invite some of the wealthy men of the Church to take an interest in the company, thus retaining the control, as against the non-Mormon stock-holders. (2)

At 2 p.m. the conference met again. Prayer by Joseph E. Taylor. The sacrament was administered. Prest. George Q. Cannon spoke on Zions growth and mens duty to their families. Heber J. Grant, LeRoy Snow, J. Golden Kimball and Prest. Lorenzo Snow spoke upon the law of tithing.

The weather has been fine. The attendance was large. A most excelent spirit prevailed. (1)

-- Sep 5, 1899; Tuesday
The First Presidency were at the office. Brother Franklin S. Richards called and presented the claim of a wife of Brother William H. Folsom against the estate of Sister Farr, deceased, who left her homestead property to the Church. Sister Folsom was an adopted daughter of Sister Farr, who is said to have stated to her executors, John Henry Smith and John Groesbeck, that she felt she had done enough for her, and she wished the Church to have the benefit of the property in question. Brother Folsom, who is in straitened circumstances, now joins his wife in asking the Church to turn over the property to her. It was decided that the Church relinquish its claim to this property, without expense to the Church, and Brother Richards was instructed to so inform the executors of the estate.

Brother Richard W. Young called and met Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith. He laid before them a matter upon which he desired their advice. Before leaving Manila, General [Elwell S.] Otis had appointed him a member of the Supreme Court there, and he had come home on furlough, with the privilege of remaining in Utah, or returning to the Philippines to continue in his present position, which brought him a salary of $5,000.00 a year. He remarked to the Presidency that if left to his own discretion he should consider it a sacrifice to return to Manila,

for the reason that his family needed his presence at home, and he could not think of taking his family with him, on account of the expense it would incur. He said that he now came for the purpose of submitting the question, and would carry out whatever advice might be given him. After some deliberation the Presidency seemed to feel that it would be a proper thing for Brother Young to continue in the service of the Government. They would not, however, advise him against his will. President Snow counselled him to make it a matter of prayer, and whatever he decided to do afterwards would be agreeable and satisfactory to the brethren. With this understanding, the interview ended. (2)

-- 8/24/1899
"The whole earth is the Lord's. The time will come when it will be translated and be filled with the spirit of God. The Atmosphere around it will be the spirit of the Almighty. We will breathe that Spirit instead of the atmosphere we now breathe." - Lorenzo Snow (1)

Conference convened at 10 a.m. President Lorenzo Snow dwelt upon the law of tithing for 85 minutes and in a most pleasing and forcefull manner. Bp. William B. Preston followed in the same strain, and with a most excelent spirit.

2 p.m. Prayer by LeRoy Snow.

Apostle Anthon H. Lund spoke on the wisdom of obeying every law of the Lord.

President Franklin D. Richards spoke 37 minutes. His mind would not work and he stood for four minutes at a time without saying a word. All were much distressed by his evident growing weakness of Intelect. He seemed very nervious. He, however, stuck to the text.

Joseph E. Taylor made an interesting talk on the Law of tithing. (2)

-- Sunday, Aug 27, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Paris

At 9 a.m. the Sunday schools met in the Tabernacle.

2,511 persons shook hands with President Lorenzo Snow, among them 111 babies, three pair of twins being among the Little ones.

Apostle B. Young reported his recent visit south. Held conference in Mexico on July 23 and 24; also held meeting in Dublan [Mexico].

A letter from Anthony Ivins in relation to the Dublan W[ar]d was read. He said that a reorganization of the Dublan Ward was almost a necessity, owing to the inability of the present bishopric to meet the requirements of the office. Winslow Farr, the bishop, had decided to resign, and in fact had done so, and Philip H. Hurst had been selected by the presidency of the stake and high council to succeed him, subject to the approval of the brethren. It was moved and carried that said action be sustained.

Stake conferences appointments: to Pocatello, Apostle M. W. Merrill; to San Pete, President Snow and party. Apostle A. O Woodruff reported the recent visit of himself and Jos. W. McMurrin to the Woodruff Stake Conference. The conference was well attended, and the reports were favorable. They afterwards visited, he said, the Big Horn country, which was 150 miles long by 125 miles wide. At Burlington the people had built a good sized meeting house. They were visited by some elders from Colorado, who had organized a Sabbath School, a Young People's Association, and Relief Society. The people there had paid some tithing. Said that the Big Horn valley is a beautiful valley and very desirable for settlement. There were, he thought, about 400 people of our faith in the Big Horn. The following brethren, he said, were selected and ordain[ed] to the bishopric of the Burlington Ward: W. H. Packard, bishop; D. P. Woodruff, 1st counselor; Wm. Neves, 2nd counselor. Held ward conference at Fort

Bridger, and also visited Lucerne Valley, and gave the people there a branch organization. They also visited Vernal but finding the conference adjourned, or rather postponed, they left for home immediately.

Pres. Cannon expressed some views respecting the colonization of our people at distant points—500 or 600 miles—from headquarters (Salt Lake City). He was opposed to it in his feelings. He thought the policy not a wise one, as a rule. There are reasons, however, he thought, why we should colonize Canada and Mexico. It seemed to be the general feeling among the brethren that it would be a good thing to secure the Big Horn valley, so far as possible. Prayer by M. W. Merrill. (3)

-- Aug 19, 1899; Saturday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the office for a short time. President Snow was called for this morning by Mr. Letcher, and taken to the grand stand immediately in front of the City and County Building, to review the parade of the returning volunteers from the Philippines, and thence to Liberty Park to offer the invocation, a part of the program of ceremonies at that place in honor of the returning heroes. ... (1)

Pres. Snow spoke to the children of the Sunday Schools, who were scattered through the congregation. Said that he had reached the age of 85, but many of the children present, he remarked, by doing right could live to be a hundred years old. Admonished them to honor their fathers and mothers that their days might be long in the land. Also spoke upon the subject of prayer.

At the close of the meeting an opportunity was given to the Sunday School children, and in fact to all present, to shake hands with President Snow. One thousand and ten availed themselves of the privilege.

2 p.m. Meeting called to order by Pres. Pond. Pres. Snow said that the Lord had shown him that the people of His Church must wake up and obey the law of tithing, or calamities would come upon them. Read the revelation on tithing and made some remarks upon it. "I say to you in the name of the Lord," he said, "if you will pay your tithing in full, the Lord will forgive you for your disobedience in the past."

After meeting, a party of us, namely, Pres. J. F. Smith, wife, and son, Bp. Preston, myself, Rudger [Jr.] and Lorry Snow drove out to the Hooper Spring. We enjoyed the water very much. (3)

Brother John Henry Smith brought up the matter of the making of Temple aprons out of native Utah silk, a subject broached by a kinsman of his to President Snow during his recent visit to St. George [Utah]. He was told that some of the people there were prepared to make such aprons, weaving the fig leaves into the fabric, and was asked his mind regarding it. Speaking upon this subject, Brother Lund suggested that the leaves be wrought so as to overlap each other, thus carrying out the idea intended to be conveyed. It was decided to have the parties submit a pattern. ...

An informal talk was had about the Utah Loan and Trust Company's bank. During the conversation Brother Grant stated that if President Snow approved of his being President of that bank, with George D. Pyper as cashier, he believed they would be able to revive the institution. The President took the matter under advisement. ...

Brother Clawson reported the visit of himself and Brother Wells to Star Valley [Wyoming]. It had been two years since the Saints in that valley received the visit of an Apostle, and as the result some things needed attention there. Bishop Wright of Afton had been released, and Osborn Low appointed his successor. The counselors were not chosen. Bishop Weight had not been in touch with his people. He lived two miles out of town. When made Bishop, he was told that he would have to move his family from his ranch into town; he did so, but his wife complained of the water, so he moved back again. He was very much pleased at his release. Fairview Ward was organized, with F. G. Tolman as Bishop, and Christopher Merkley and Levi Richardson as counselors. Brother Clawson added that he found an aged brother presiding, who was a barrier in the way of progress. It was suggested to him that he resign and go into the High Priests quorum, but he did not like this, and said that he would rather go on a mission.

This mention raised the question in the mind of President Snow as to how far a man should be permitted to hold office, when through age or other defects he impeded the progress of the work. Some of the brethren expressed themselves to the effect that there were a great many places where changes ought to be made on this account. President Snow, continuing the subject, said he believed the Lord required that the proper men should preside over our Stakes and Ward, men who would be diligent, thoughtful, full of consideration, and have the interest of the people very near to their hearts. Where men were found lacking in these qualities, they should be talked to and looked after, and if they failed to come up to the mark, a change should be effected. ... (1)

-- Aug 11, 1899; Friday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the Office; President George Q. Cannon still absent on his trip to Canada.

The sum of $25 was appropriated in favor of Richards Matthews, an old employee of the Deseret News, and now an invalid.

Charles M. Plant had an interview with Presidents Snow and Smith. He had recently been cut off the Church for non-compliance with a decision of the High Council, involving a monetary consideration between himself and Spencer Clawson. He asked for an appeal, which he said had been denied him. An appeal was ordered by the Presidency.

Elders George J. Taylor, William B. Dougall and Spencer

Clawson met with Presidents Snow and Smith in relation to the affairs of the Latter-day Saints' College. It was found necessary to raise $2,000 to purchase of Professor Joseph Nelson the school furniture of the commercial department, as before noted in this journal. The Presidency authorized these brethren to report to the College Board that the Church would support them in this purchase. (1)

-- Aug 15, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office; President [George Q.] Cannon still in Canada. Bishop [William B.] Preston called this afternoon and chatted with President Snow, who told him that he had firmly made up his mind to erect the new Deseret News Building, with four stories and a basement, on the Council House Corner. (1)

Brother John Henry Smith brought up the matter of the making of Temple aprons out of native Utah silk, a subject broached by a kinsman of his to President Snow during his recent visit to St. George [Utah]. He was told that some of the people there were prepared to make such aprons, weaving the fig leaves into the fabric, and was asked his mind regarding it. Speaking upon this subject, Brother Lund suggested that the leaves be wrought so as to overlap each other, thus carrying out the idea intended to be conveyed. It was decided to have the parties submit a pattern. ...

An informal talk was had about the Utah Loan and Trust Company's bank. During the conversation Brother Grant stated that if President Snow approved of his being President of that bank, with George D. Pyper as cashier, he believed they would be able to revive the institution. The President took the matter under advisement. ...

Brother Clawson reported the visit of himself and Brother Wells to Star Valley [Wyoming]. It had been two years since the Saints in that valley received the visit of an Apostle, and as the result some things needed attention there. Bishop Wright of Afton had been released, and Osborn Low appointed his successor. The counselors were not chosen. Bishop Weight had not been in touch with his people. He lived two miles out of town. When made Bishop, he was told that he would have to move his family from his ranch into town; he did so, but his wife complained of the water, so he moved back again. He was very much pleased at his release. Fairview Ward was organized, with F. G. Tolman as Bishop, and Christopher Merkley and Levi Richardson as counselors. Brother Clawson added that he found an aged brother presiding, who was a barrier in the way of progress. It was suggested to him that he resign and go into the High Priests quorum, but he did not like this, and said that he would rather go on a mission.

This mention raised the question in the mind of President Snow as to how far a man should be permitted to hold office, when through age or other defects he impeded the progress of the work. Some of the brethren expressed themselves to the effect that there

were a great many places where changes ought to be made on this account. President Snow, continuing the subject, said he believed the Lord required that the proper men should preside over our Stakes and Ward, men who would be diligent, thoughtful, full of consideration, and have the interest of the people very near to their hearts. Where men were found lacking in these qualities, they should be talked to and looked after, and if they failed to come up to the mark, a change should be effected. ... (1)

-- Aug 9, 1899; Wednesday
The First Presidency were at the office. The following cable message from Liverpool [England] was received this morning: Elder Joseph Hogan, of Bountiful [Utah] drowned in Rhine, on the 5th. (Signed) Platte D. Lyman.

Elder John Lloyd, of Sandy [Utah], called upon the Presidency, in response to their request. A letter was received a few days ago from the Presidency of the European Mission, conveying the information that Elder Lloyd, who returned from a mission to Wales a year ago, had been charged by a young woman named Mickey with having had criminal associations with her on three different occasions; that since then she had married a brother named Gale, but before marriage had confessed to him her transgression with Lloyd. She was now desirous of having the matter brought before the proper authorities, as she was in a suspended state so far as her Church fellowship was concerned. The Presidency talked with Brother Lloyd privately, and the result of

the interview was a complete denial on his part of the truth of the accusation. He was requested to put his denial in writing.

The sum of ten dollars was appropriated in favor of a lady named Mrs. Murdock, who represented herself as the widow of an army officer who was drowned while in General John Cook's regiment. She had come from San Francisco [California] in the hope of finding friends of her deceased husband and of getting employment as a music teacher, but had failed to find work, and now asked to be assisted to Denver. She had applied for relief to certain ministers here, but had failed to get it. She remarked that she felt it was not a proper thing for her to do, to come to President [Lorenzo] Snow for relief, but as she understood that the Mormon people took care of their own poor, and having failed to obtain relief from her Gentile friends, she felt compelled to request this assistance here. The amount was given to pay her half fare to Denver [Colorado].

Elder Matthias F. Cowley, of the Council of the Twelve Apostles, left this afternoon for the northern States Mission, to fill an appointment made by him with President Louis A. Kelsch.

The father of Elder Joseph Hogan, reported drowned in the Rhine on the 5th inst., called at the office, accompanied by his wife and the young woman who was engaged to be married to the deceased, and who wished to be sealed to him, if it met the approval of the Presidency. President [George Q.] Cannon showed her that if this was done, her chances to get a husband would be very slight, unless she married a Gentile, or a poor kind of a Mormon, since a man firm in the faith would naturally want, as a wife, a woman sealed to himself. Considerable conversation followed, and finally the young woman decided to take the advice of President Snow and wait before acting upon the matter.

Brother N[ephi]. W. Clayton, manager of the Saltair resort, called. He stated that the Mutual Improvement Association was booked for a day at Saltair, and that those in charge of the excursion had requested that the bar be closed on that day. He held that if the request were complied with, and the bar closed, a notice should be published to that effect beforehand, so that regular patrons of the resort might govern themselves accordingly. It was decided that this should be done.

A letter was received, signed by L. M. Savage, in relation to the transfer of Church stock in the Woodruff [Arizona] dam to the Snowflake Academy. Some time ago a committee representing that Academy had asked that this stock be turned over to it, and it was decided to grant the request, provided the people of Woodruff did not object to the transfer. This decision was conveyed to President Jesse N. Smith, and subsequently a communication, dated April 2, 1899, was received at this office, informing the Presidency that about half of the stockholders had voted to allow the transfer, the other half strongly urging that it be retained by the Church. Brother Savage's letter, dated the 1st inst., certified to the fact that a meeting had been held by the stockholders of the dam and a unanimous vote cast in favor of the transfer. It was ordered accordingly. (1)

-- Aug 10, 1899; Thursday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office; President George Q. Cannon being on his way to Canada, to help adjust the differences that have arisen between our people working on the Alberta canal and the engineer, Mr. [George] Anderson.

Absent: George Q. Cannon, on the way to Canada; Brigham Young [Jr.], in the south; John W. Taylor, in Canada; Matthias F. Cowley, in the Northern States Mission; Francis M. Lyman, Marriner W[ood]. Merrill and Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, away on duty. ...

Brother Grant reported that he had not finished working on the Utah Loan and Trust Company business, which had been given him as a mission. He was still trying to effect a loan, to save the building from the foreclosure of the mortgage. He submitted several schemes, one of which was to close the bank, which would necessitate the collection of another $15,000, a thing very hard to do. Another was to assess the stock, and carry on the business after paying the mortgage. He advocated the latter plan, and asked that the Church, in case it were adopted, take stock for $15,000 or more, as President Snow might see his way clear to determine. The matter was taken under advisement.

The copy of a letter from C[yrus]. E. Dallin, sculptor, to the Brigham Young Memorial Association, was read, in which Mr. Dallin informed that Body that unless steps were taken to satisfy him, in the matter of the amount yet due upon the Pioneer Monument, he would either have the monument taken down or veiled. The matter was referred to Brother John Henry Smith, with a request that he confer with the officers of the association regarding it. President Snow now learned for the first time that the Church was responsible for this indebtedness. ...

Brother Lloyd, of Sandy [Utah], whose case is mentioned in yesterday's journal, came to the office to-day, accompanied by his Bishop, and confessed to the charge of adultery, which he had previously denied. He was told that the matter would be taken under advisement and his Bishop instructed how to act in the case. (1)

-- Aug 8, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office, having returned home last evening, President Cannon from Colorado, and the others from Cache [Utah] Stake.

Presidents Snow and Cannon, in the absence of President Smith, who had to leave, met with the following members of the Latter-day Saints College Board: John Nicholson, John C. Cutler,

Spencer Clawson, George J. Taylor, and William B. Dougall; also Joshua H. Paul and Joseph Nelson. It appears that the commercial department of the College, under the direction of Brother Nelson, has been running practically as an independent institution, the director, on his own responsibility, having fitted it up with furniture and apparatus at a cost of about $3,000. This was done while Brother Willard Done was President of the College. Brother Done having resigned, Brother Joshua H. Paul having succeeded him, the Board were determined that he should preside over the whole institution, and that the commercial department should be united with the College proper, under one management. The Board had instructed Brother Paul to confer with Brother Nelson in regard to the matter, and Brother Paul's report, which had been referred to the First Presidency, was now read, giving the substance of his conversation with Brother Nelson, which the latter conceded to be correct. Brother Nelson was reported as having expressed himself perfectly willing to labor under Brother Paul, on the following conditions: that the Board either purchase his furniture at a cost of $3,000, or pay a rental of $50 a month; in case of purchase, and inability of Board to pay, interest to be allowed at the rate of 8 per cent.

After the matter had been considered for some time, President Cannon made the following motion: That the commercial department of the Latter-day Saints College be regarded as an inseparable department of the College, under the jurisdiction of the Board of Trustees, the same as any other department of the institution. President Snow remarked that the motion expressed his mind exactly, and he called for a second. George J. Taylor seconded the motion, and it was unanimously carried. The question of purchase or rental of the furniture was then considered and taken under advisement, until President Smith could be consulted. Consent was granted to President Paul to arrange with Elders David McKenzie, John Nicholson and Nephi Morris to lecture in the Theological department of the College during the coming school year. (2)

Endnotes:
1 - Madsen, Truman G., The Presidents of the Church
2 - First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve minutes

-- Aug 1, 1899; Tuesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office. On motion of

President Smith, seconded by President Cannon, the sum of $300 was appropriated to the fund now being raised by subscription for the purpose of welcoming home the Utah Volunteers from the Philippines. This in response to a request from the committee appointed to solicit such subscriptions, they having asked the Church to subscribe.

Recently there appeared in "The Arena", over the signature of Theodore Curtis, a favorable article on the Mormon people, and some one (supposed to be A. T[heodore]. Schroeder) sent an answer to the editor of that paper, making a bitter attack upon the Saints. The editor sent President Cannon a copy of the latter article, inviting him to give our side of the question, so that both sides might appear in the same number of that publication. This friendly act was much appreciated, and the matter was now referred to Brothers [Franklin D.] Richards, [Orson F.] Whitney and Jacques, of the Historian's Office, to formulate an answer and submit it. (1)

-- Aug 2, 1899; Wednesday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith were at the office; President George Q. Cannon having left this morning for Boulder, Colorado, to deliver an address before the Chatauqua gathering.

Brother David Eccles called, accompanied by a Brother Jordan. The latter had sold his place with a view to moving to LaGrande, Oregon, but his Bishop had expressed in public his judgment against Brother Jordan's moving there, and as some of his relatives and friends desired to go also, he did not feel free to move without consulting the First Presidency. Presidents Snow and Smith gave Brothers Eccles and Jordan to understand that there was no objection to our people settling in that country. (1)

-- Aug 3, 1899; Thursday
Presidents [Lorenzo] Snow and [Joseph F.] Smith were at the office. An order was issued for $87.60 to pay the fares of Sister Emmeline B. Wells and Sister Susa Y. Gates from New York to Salt Lake City; an order having previously been issued on the Liverpool [England] Office for their fares across the ocean. This amount included $15 for sleeping berths, and also $4 for Brother John W. Taylor, on account of his railroad fare to Canada; his passes covering every other expense.

The question was considered as to the wisdom of withdrawing our missionaries from the State of Georgia, in view of the recent mobbings of our Elders there. Brother Cowley had suggested to President Snow that this be done, and Brother Lyman now favored the suggestion. President Snow, however, seeing that the Governor of that State had issued a call upon the people to uphold the law, thought it would be well to note the effect of that call, before acting upon the suggestion.

A communication from Manager H[orace]. G. Whitney of the Deseret News, in relation to the printing of a missionary hymn

book, had been referred to a committee consisting of President Franklin D. Richards, Anthon H. Lund and George Reynolds. The News had learned that the Cannon and Sons Company was about to publish the hymn book, and he wanted to know if this was not properly the province of the Deseret News establishment. The report of the committee was to the effect that to the Deseret News office properly belonged the publication of all important Church works, including this particular book.

President Richards now brought to the attention of the Council another communication from the manager of the News, stating that he had learned that Cannon and Sons had copyrighted the work, a fact of which President Richards was already apprised. It was suggested by Brother Lund that the Deseret News print a smaller edition of this work, which he believed would be more popular than the one copyrighted by the Cannon and Sons Company. The suggestion met with general asent. ...

A communication was read from George D. Pyper, Secretary of the Sunday School Union board, stating that they were about to publish cards containing the Lord's prayer, for use in Sabbath schools, some of which had adopted the scriptural version as given by St. Matthew, while others used the version given by the Prophet Joseph Smith. The Board sought the mind of the First Presidency. Expressing themselves upon this matter, some of the brethren felt that we should not perpetuate the error in the scriptural version of the prayer, and that therefore the Prophet Joseph's version should be used. Others thought the scriptural version should be adhered to, but that pains should be taken to correct the error. President Smith moved that the Council recommend to the Sunday School Union Board the printing of the Prophet Joseph's version, and the motion was seconded by Brother Clawson. On motion of Brother Lyman, however, action was deferred until the return of President [George Q.] Cannon, the General Superintendent of the Deseret Sunday School Union. ... (1)

-- Jul 21, 1899; Friday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow and George Q. Cannon were at the office; President Joseph F. Smith having gone to Logan [Utah] to attend a meeting of the Brigham Young College Board, which was about to elect a trustee. The President of the College, William J. Kerr, had been asked to name some suitable persons, and had named Joseph Howell, of Wellsville [Utah], and Lyman Martineau and A. G. Barber, of Logan. President Cannon thought Brother Howell the most influential man of the three, and felt that it would be a good thing to have some of the trustees residing outside of Logan. A telegram was sent by President Snow, naming Joseph Howell as his choice to fill the vacancy, and later in the day a message was received from Herschel Bullen, Jr., Secretary of the College, informing President Snow that Brother Howell had accepted the appointment.

Sister Amelia F. Young called and introduced a man who had a scheme to colonize the Argentine Republic, and wanted 100,000 of our people to go there. He made wonderful promises, among others, that the church was to receive two and a half million acres of land. The proposition amused President Snow, who, "just for the fun of it", asked the gentleman to put his proposition in writing. (1)

-- Jul 23, 1899
Last plural marriage President Lorenzo Snow permits stake president (and future Apostle and member of First Presidency) Anthony W. Ivins to perform in Mexico. (2)

-- Jul 27, 1899; Thursday
The First Presidency were at the office. They considered a letter recently received from Elders Mahonri M. Steele and David Cameron, counselors to President Jesse W. Crosby, Jr., of Panguitch [Utah] Stake, conveying the information that President Crosby had been arrested on the charge of adultery, and that he and they felt desirous that some of the Apostles be sent to investigate the charge. It was decided not to institute any such proceedings at present, but to let the law take its course, and meantime to suspend Brother Crosby from acting in his presidential office, and place the affairs of the Stake in the hands of his counselors. Letters were to be written to him and them to this effect.

The President now directed the attention of the Council to the position the Church should take in the prosecutions against polygamists that were now going on and were likely to continue. The subject was considered at great length, and it was the general sense of the meeting that each case must stand on its own merits

and be regarded as a personal matter. Such was the substance of the testimony of the First Presidency and those Apostles who appeared before the Master in Chauncery, in August 1891. It was decided, however, in order to show that polygamy was not on the increase, to get the Presidents of Stakes to collect statistics, giving the number of polygamists when the Manifesto was issued, and the number existing now.

A communication was read, signed by John Henry Smith and Matthias F. Cowley, a committee appointed some time ago to ascertain how cheaply the Book of Mormon and other Church works could be printed. On motion, the communication was received, to be acted upon hereafter. ... (1)

-- Sunday, Jul 16, 1899
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Richfield. Clear and warm. 9 a.m. Sunday School session at the tabernacle. The First Presidency and other authorities present. A large number of beautiful children were assembled. School called to order by Asst. Stake Supt., Chariton Seegmiller.

Pres. Snow said that he was over 85 years of age and that the little children before him, if they would do right, could live to be 85, 95, 100 years and longer. Advised them to pay tithing on all money they received.

Pres. Cannon made brief remarks on the word of wisdom, prayer, and obedience. The children were given the opportunity to shake hands with Pres. Snow and 717 enjoyed the privilege.

10:30 a.m. Regular service of [Sevier Stake] Conference continued. Meeting called to order by Pres. [William H.] Seegmiller. Prayer by Pres. Lorenzo Snow, which was the dedicatory prayer.

Pres. Snow was the first speaker and dwelt at some length upon the principle of tithing. Also spoke of the law of consecration and said that sooner or later—not today or tomorrow—we would have to observe that law. If it had been observed by the people of Jackson County from that day to this, we would now have power over the nations and would be the richest community on earth. There would not be a poor man or woman in the Church. The Church will never get out of debt, the Lord will not allow us to get out of debt, unless we pay a proper tithing. I say to you in the name of the Lord God of Israel that He will not let us pass along in relation to that law as we have done without bringing trouble upon us. If I were going to my death within an hour, I would leave with you as my dying testimony that which I have said to you. Pres. Snow spoke 53 minutes. I took dinner with Jos. Thurber, who was incarcerated in the penitentiary at the time I was serving my sentence there.

2 p.m. Meeting called to order by Pres. Seegmiller. Pres. J. F. Smith followed and spoke in complimentary terms of the new tabernacle. Spoke of the great change and improvement that had taken place in the Sevier Stake in the last 30 years. In speaking of the righteous and the wicked, showed how the former would be blessed and the latter, destroyed. Exhorted the saints to pay their tithing and be blessed. Read from Sec. 82, D.&C., and spoke powerfully. Endorsed the statement of Pres. Snow, wherein he said that the Lord will forgive us for our past neglect of tithing in the past, if we will pay our tithing in the future.

Apostle F. M. Lyman spoke powerfully upon the subject of tithing. Pres. Cannon spoke and said he hoped the people would receive the word of the Lord as delivered to us through Pres. Snow. Dwelt upon the principle of tithing and bore testimony that it was from God. (1)

Absent: Brigham Young [Jr.], on his way to Mexico; Heber J. Grant, at Soda Springs [Idaho]; John W. Taylor, on his way to Canada; Marriner W[ood]. Merrill, Matthias F. Cowley and Abraham O[wen]. Woodruff, the last-named in Woodruff [Wyoming/Utah] Stake.

A letter was read from Bishop George Mumford, of Beaver [Utah], asking the mind of the First Presidency on a remark made by Bishop [William B.] Preston at the late Solemn Assembly, while speaking on the subject of tithing. Bishop Preston was understood to have stated that after a man pays his hay tithing, if he has occasion to sell the balance and realizes a higher price for it than hay was worth when he paid his tithing, in the season thereof, he would be still owing a tenth on the increase in value.

The subject was talked over, and it appeared that other letters had been written to the Presidency concerning it. It was the mind of the Council that if a tenth of the hay was paid at the time it was due, it answered the law; and that it was unwise to raise such technicalities.

A letter was read from Elder George C. Parkinson, President of Oneida [Idaho] Stake, stating that since the Solemn Assembly he had called meetings of the Priesthood at which resolutions were

taken by those present to practice the law of tithing themselves, and teach it to their families and the people over whom they preside. ...

Brother Lyman asked the question whether a man who had done a janitor's work in a meetinghouse should receive credit for his services on labor tithing account. The mind of the Council was that there could be no objection to this if the work done was legitimate labor tithing. But experience had shown that the tendency as to get credit for labor tithing when other tithing was due. A motion was made by President Cannon against making a precedent of this case, and the motion was unanimously sustained. ... (2)

The brethren composing the First Council of Seventies, who had been specially invited to attend this meeting, now came in, namely, Seymour B. Young, Christian Fjelsted, George Reynolds, Brigham H. Roberts, Jonathan G[olden]. Kimball, Rulon S. Wells and Joseph W. McMurrin.

President Snow, arising, addressed those assembled. He remarked that he and his counselors, with the Twelve Apostles, felt that they would like to have one meeting with these brethren of the Seventies, that they might partake of the sacrament together, and this feeling had prompted the invitation which had

brought them here on this occasion. He took pleasure informing the invited guests that there was perfect unanimity in the Council of the First Presidency and Apostles, and he felt satisfied that this same feeling prevailed in the Council of the Seventies. He looked forward with hope and encouragement to see the purposes of the Lord accomplished through His united Priesthood.

President Snow then took his seat, but immediately arose again, saying that the Lord had revealed to him that it was his duty, and the duty of his brethren, to stir up the people from the bottom of their hearts, in relation to one of the laws of heaven, which they had failed to keep. Unless this law was obeyed the Church could not exist financially, nor could we exist as a people for the want of His blessing. He referred to the law of tithing. The Lord had promised that we should be preserved from our enemies if we observed this law, but if we rejected it we should be cursed. This was the word given to the Church in early days, and it applies to us to-day. If the Saints had observed this law, the land of Zion would have been sanctified, and their enemies could not have dispossessed them. The speaker referred to other sins that some called Saints were guilty of, such as fornication and adultery. But how often, he asked, do men commit such sins if they keep the law of tithing? Not more than fifteen out of a thousand, if that many. There was safety in strictly adhering to the Lord's commandments, and this applied to officers as well as to lay members of the Church.

Brother John Henry Smith suggested that the brethren, in talking to the Saints on the subject of tithing, do not enter into details, but refer to the revelation, which plainly requires one-tenth of our increase or interest annually, leaving the people to deal with their own consciences. He stated that this had been considered by the Apostles this morning, before the Presidency joined them; that it was the advice of President Richards, and he, the speaker, mentioned it now for the benefit of the brethren of the Seventies, that all might understand it alike.

President Richards reminded President Snow that the matter of filling the vacancy in the Presidency of Cache [Utah] Stake had been laid over until to-day, to be considered when Brother Merrill was present; whereupon President Snow invited Brother Merrill to express himself upon the subject.

Brother Merrill stated that he had considered the matter to some extent, but had not settled on any one. He would prefer that the Presidency have their choice, and would be pleased to support the man of their choice, and while there were some men quite prominent whom he would not choose because of their past record, if these were chosen by the Presidency he would sustain them. He thought that the men who preside in Cache Stake should be men in full harmony with the First Presidency and the Apostles. If the right man were chosen to preside, there would be a great revival throughout the Stake. The President of the Stake and his counselors should live in Logan. All things considered, Brother Merrill felt that Isaac Smith would fill the position of Stake President; his talk had always the right ring, he had always

supported the First Presidency, and had traveled in all kinds of weather to keep his appointments. On being asked to name others, Brother Merrill named Joseph Morrell, who, he thought would make a strong counselor or a good president. Referring to the late President, Orson Smith, the speaker said that he had never sought his counsel upon anything, and while he did not take exception to this, he did think it would have been better had Brother Smith consulted with him, as an Apostle residing in his Stake, and consulted more than he did with his own counselors in the Stake Presidency.

President Snow: "We want a man who has two spirits in him, so to speak, that of the lion and that of the lamb; and whoever is chosen to preside in Cache Stake, it will be found that unless he possesses these two characteristics, he will fail to give satisfaction." President Snow knew Isaac Smith personally, and when it came to carrying out instructions of the First Presidency, he could be relied upon, but as to exercising the lamb-like spirit, bearing and forbearing, he feared Brother Isaac was lacking in that respect.

Brother Jonathan G[olden]. Kimball, having received permission to speak, said that he recognized in Brother Isaac Smith a good man, but the latter had admitted to him, in a personal way, that he was unfortunate in hurting people's feelings, and had often hurt the feelings of his own family without intending it. Brother Kimball offered this remark in confirmation of what President Snow had said. Asked about Joseph Morrell, Brother Kimball answered that he would make a better counselor than president.

President Smith remarked that Isaac Smith offended Moses Thatcher at the time of the division on party lines. Moses asked Isaac which side of the fence he intended to choose. Isaac's answer did not satisfy Moses, who replied that he was going to take care of his friends, and he had had his knife in Isaac ever since.

Brother Cowley said that he was the first to mention Brother Morrell's name. He was satisfied that he would make a most excellent president, and would be acceptable to all classes of people in Cache Stake; his past course having been such that he had not aroused the antagonism of his brethren. Brother Cowley also suggested the name of Heber Merrill as a suitable young man for counselor.

Brother Fjeldsted, being asked to express his opinion, said that Brother Morrell was a good level-headed man, and that Brother Isaac Smith was certainly a man full of zeal, very desirous of carrying out the mind of his file leaders. Experience would ripen him in wisdom.

Brother Grant said that he rather liked Brother Isaac for the enemies he had made, but did not think he was the man to preside over Cache Stake. From what had been said about Brother Morrell, the speaker felt that he could sustain him heartily.

On motion of Brother John W. Taylor the whole question was left with the First Presidency, to decide as they might feel led;

the vote being unanimous.

The Sacrament was now partaken of, all the brethren present sitting at the table, and the prayer being offered by President Smith. After partaking of the Sacrament all arose, and President Richards offered the closing prayer.

The Council adjourned, all feeling that the time spent had been very enjoyable. (1)

-- Jul 14, 1899; Friday
Presidents Lorenzo Snow, George Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith were at the office, and the latter two during the forenoon were at the office of the Union Light and Power Company. In the afternoon they, accompanied by Brothers LeGrand Young and Robert Campbell, came and submitted for President Snow's signature the papers re-organizing the present company. This business occupied the remainder of the day. In order to fully satisfy his mind as to the scope of the papers submitted, President Snow sent for Attorney F[ranklin]. S. Richards, and he,

after reading the same, and consulting with Brother Young and others, advised President Snow that these papers were putting into effect the machinery to carry out the conclusions arrived at in New York by President Cannon and the gentlemen with whom he recently dealt there. President Snow then signed.

The sum of $600 was appropriated for Brother Andrew Kimball, as compensation for his services as Stake President. (1)